George Nakashima
Conoid Coffee Table, 1968
Material: English walnut
This Conoid Coffee Table by George Nakashima (1905–1990) is an exceptional example from one of the most influential American designers of the 20th century. Made in 1968 at Nakashima’s studio in New Hope, Pennsylvania, the table features a dramatically figured single-board English walnut top with an oversized butterfly.
Fully documented, this table stands as a significant work from Nakashima’s mature period. It embodies his enduring philosophy to honor the soul of the tree through thoughtful design, material, and timeless form.
George Nakashima was born in Spokane, Washington in 1905 to Japanese parents who had immigrated to the United States. Educated and trained as an architect at the University of Washington, Nakashima received his Master’s degree in Architecture from M.I.T. in 1930. After working briefly as an architect in the United States he left for Paris seeking the creative energies of one of the great urban centers of the day. From there he traveled extensively, ending up at the home of his grandmother, living on a farm on the outskirts of Tokyo.
| Dimensions | 49 × 38 × 14 in |
|---|---|
| Artist | |
| Date | 1968 |
| Material | English Walnut |
| Style |
